Latest TVS diode arrays improve ESD protection in smartphones, tablets and laptops

Latest from Littelfuse is the SPxx-01WTG-C-HV Series (SPxx Series) of general-purpose ESD Protection TVS diode arrays (SPA diodes). The SPxx Series extends previous improvements for protecting sensitive electronic devices from damage due to electrostatic discharge (ESD) and other overvoltage transients. The new 'high-voltage' 0201-size components are well suited to safeguarding the data lines on larger touchscreen modules that are used in large-format tablets and notebooks. They use higher voltages across their rows and columns to allow the touchscreen to distinguish between intended and unintended touches. The SPxx Series can safely absorb repetitive ESD strikes above the maximum level of the IEC61000-4-2 international standard without performance degradation and safely dissipate up to 8A of induced surge current with comparatively low clamping voltages. In addition, when compared to other industry solutions, it offers 25 percent higher peak pulse power, 50 percent lower leakage current, and up to 40 percent lower capacitance. Unlike many offerings, the SPxx Series is AEC-Q101 qualified, assuring circuit designers automotive-grade quality. Typical applications include ESD protection for touchscreens, portable instrumentation, LED lighting modules, and low speed I/Os. “The SPxx Series offers design engineers a choice in selecting the appropriate voltage for the interface they need to protect,” said Tim Micun, product manager, Littelfuse TVS Diode Array Line. “With standoff voltages as high as 36V, they simplify protecting the large-format touchscreens that are increasingly popular on the newest PCs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.”